Work With Us

We are seeking an enthusiastic and client-focused individual to join our Private Events Team as a contractual support staff member. In this role, you will serve as a key point of contact for prospective clients and provide essential behind-the-scenes support to our Private Events Coordinator, helping to create seamless experiences for every client.

Hourly Rate

$16.03

Hours

8-12 hours per week. This is a flexible, part-time contractual position. Shifts vary based on event scheduling and may include evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays. Advance scheduling will be provided whenever possible.

Duties

• Deliver exceptional customer service to prospective and current clients inquiring about venue rental opportunities, ensuring every client feels welcomed and valued from the very first interaction.
• Manage and organize client records and associated documentation, including contracts, payments, and insurance certificates, maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Respond to incoming phone and email inquiries, providing venue rental information or gathering client information for timely follow-up by the Private Events Coordinator.
• Schedule Aquarium site tours and independently conduct tours on weekends (Saturday and Sunday) when the Private Events Coordinator is unavailable.
• Provide on-site support during evening events as needed or requested.
• Become an enthusiastic ambassador for the Aquarium – knowing its mission, history, achievements, and vision to share our story with clients.
• Uphold a polished, professional appearance while in uniform and consistently represent the organization’s values.
• Go above and beyond to create meaningful, personalized experiences that inspire, delight, and engage our clients.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required.
• A natural people-person with outstanding interpersonal and customer service skills and passion for hospitality.
• Highly adaptable with the ability to manage shifting priorities in a dynamic event environment.
• A collaborative team player who thrives in a people-focused environment and takes pride in supporting colleagues to deliver seamless, memorable events.
• Enthusiastic, self-motivated, and eager to grow within the events industry.
• Availability to work weekends, evenings and occasional holidays is required for this role.

How to Apply

Send a resume by email to PrivateEvents@VirginiaAquarium.com , or by mail to:

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
717 General Booth Blvd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
ATTN: Private Events Coordinator

Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. This contract position will be employed through Abacus Staffing Services.

Hourly Rate

$15.45

Hours

20-40 hours per week, Monday-Friday

Duties

Keep the Aquarium looking and operating great!

• Support the Aquarium’s building and facilities needs by responding to calls and requesting maintenance using a work order database, performing minor repairs, and supporting projects
• Provide professional level communication and support to aquarium staff, city maintenance teams, contractors, and vendors
• Greet all guests with a smile, a verbal greeting, and approachable friendliness
• Always project a professional image while in uniform
• Ability to handle multiple tasks by priority
• Survey the Aquarium to confirm work completion, and report maintenance needs
• Research vendors and suppliers for materials and projects
• Perform paint touch ups
• Must be able to write and communicate clearly
• Able to follow detailed instructions both verbal and written
• Able to lift 50 pounds, climb, stretch, work in tight spaces
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

Preferences

High school diploma and experience with building maintenance, customer service, database use, word processing, Excel, hand tool use and building repairs. Flexible work schedule. Provide enthusiastic support to maintenance personnel, contractors and aquarium staff. Ability to work in the occasional fast paced stressful situation. Great listening skills. Great organizational skills. Self-starter with strong work ethic.

To Apply

Send your resume and cover letter via email to CSinger@VBGov.com . Or mail to:
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
717 General Booth Blvd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

If selected, applicants will be hired through Abacus Staffing Services.

As part of the Virginia Aquarium Marketing team, the Photographer (Operations Specialist II) provides high-quality images for marketing efforts including advertising, public relations, digital channels (website, social, email) and Aquarium print collateral. The photographer attends events to capture photography that assists the marketing team in telling stories across digital and print media platforms. The Marketing team’s primary purpose is to increase Aquarium attendance and revenues while also supporting the education, conservation, and scientific research mission of the Aquarium.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Take photographs of animals and exhibits for use in a variety of marketing materials
• Take photographs of guests, members, and staff for use in event-specific marketing
• Cover special events related to significant animal events, fundraising events, etc. Events may fall on evenings and weekends.
• Work with Marketing team members to identify photography needs for existing animals and exhibits
• Coordinate and schedule shoots with Brand Manager, and Animal Care, Stranding and other Aquarium sections, as needed
• Maintain photo library, tag photos and work with Brand Manager to keep library organized
• Follow workflow with Brand Manager regarding proofs, selects, retouching and approval processes
• Responsible for maintaining all photographic equipment and studio systems
• Color correct and retouch photos as needed
• Possibility for hybrid work – onsite photography and remote editing
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Experience photographing in low-lighting and with moving subjects
• Experience working with a marketing or creative team
• Ability to seek and receive direction and feedback
• Available to cover programs and special events onsite at the Aquarium, including evenings, weekends, or holidays, as assigned
• Schedule flexibility to cover Aquarium happenings, including unforeseen animal events
• Work approximately 10-14 hours per week
• Update supervisor weekly about project workload and schedule

Rate

$20/hour. Based in Hampton Roads.

How to Apply

Applicants must demonstrate professional-level experience through one of the following:

• Paid commercial, editorial or event photography work (tearsheets or verifiable photographer credits)
• Published work in print or digital media with documented credits
• Completion of formal photography degree, diploma or certification or recognized professional certificate

Hobbyist, personal social media, or self-described photography experience does not satisfy these requirements. If selected for an interview, candidate will be asked to present their portfolio which should contain relevant information about recent and relevant photography work and experience.

To apply, please email your resumé and a link to your portfolio to our Brand Manager, Krista Grabowski, at KGrabowski@VirginiaAquarium.com .